Chubbuck physical therapy clinic earns statewide honor, again
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CHUBBUCK — A local physical therapy clinic is proving that some of Idaho’s best health care is right here in eastern Idaho.
High Desert Osteopractic Physical Therapy has been named Idaho’s Best Physical Therapy Clinic for 2026, marking its second statewide win after earning the same honor in 2023.
The Idaho’s Best Awards recognize businesses based on public voting, customer reviews and online reputation. The clinic has also been recognized as Eastern Idaho’s Best for five consecutive years.
“I think it’s pretty neat that eastern Idaho could represent like that,” said office manager Debbie Lambson. “And what a great benefit to the community to have this here.”
For owner and physical therapist Dr. Jared Pugmire, the recognition reflects his commitment to bringing advanced physical therapy services to the region he has always called home.
A Blackfoot native, Pugmire has practiced in the Pocatello and Chubbuck area for nine years. His clinic is located at 820 West Chubbuck Road, inside the former St. Paul’s Catholic Church.
The building has been transformed into an open, welcoming, and calming treatment space, with architectural reminders of its former life as a church.
“Local Catholic clergy have complimented the building’s transformation, describing it as a place for physical and spiritual healing,” Pugmire said.
Bringing advanced treatment home
Pugmire describes osteopractic physical therapy as a blend of traditional physical therapy and hands-on techniques associated with chiropractic and osteopathic medicine, offering a comprehensive approach to treating the whole body.
What sets High Desert apart is Pugmire’s specialized training as an osteopractor, a physical therapist who has completed advanced postgraduate training in techniques such as spinal manipulation and dry needling.
Pugmire earned his bachelor’s degree in health professions from Idaho State University and his doctorate in physical therapy from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in 2012.
He also completed fellowship training through the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists and holds a diploma in osteopractic through the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy.
His additional certifications include spinal manipulation, dry needling, vestibular rehabilitation and concussion treatment.
Pugmire is also a senior faculty member with the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy, traveling throughout the country to teach advanced dry needling techniques to other clinicians.
That extensive training allows him to bring specialized treatment options to eastern Idaho that patients might otherwise have to travel to larger cities to receive.
High Desert treats patients ranging from infants to adults as old as 98, addressing everything from everyday aches and pains to complicated injuries and chronic conditions.
Athletes seek treatment for knee, hip and ankle injuries, along with concussions. Other patients come for rehabilitation following strokes, car accidents and surgeries, or for help managing chronic back pain and conditions such as fibromyalgia.
The clinic also works with patients experiencing postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, commonly called POTS, a nervous system disorder that can cause rapid heartbeat, dizziness, fatigue and difficulty tolerating physical activity.
Services include traditional physical therapy, spinal manipulation, dry needling, joint mobilization, cupping, laser therapy, shockwave therapy, balance rehabilitation and individualized strengthening programs.
“I like to say this is a first line of defense,” Pugmire said. “The body is amazing at healing itself, and we can work together to get people feeling better mentally and physically.”
Taking physical therapy on the road
Pugmire’s commitment to serving eastern Idaho extends beyond the walls of his Chubbuck clinic.
Through a mobile clinic, he travels to rural communities such as Soda Springs, Grace and American Falls, bringing physical therapy services closer to patients who might otherwise face long drives for treatment.
He also visits workplaces and sporting events, helping people address injuries, stiffness and other physical problems before they become more serious.
“I love helping the blue-collar workers,” Pugmire said. “It’s a way to help keep people healthy and employed.”
His hands-on approach and willingness to travel have earned him the nickname “the traveling cracker,” Lambson said, referring to his spinal manipulation techniques.
“Jared has made a significant investment in our community by bringing advanced equipment and specialized treatment methods to the area,” Lambson added. “He’s completed extensive fellowship training and is an osteopractor. I believe he’s one of only two in Idaho and approximately 500 nationwide.”
Lambson also emphasized that patients receive direct care from licensed providers rather than having their treatment sessions delegated to technicians or aides.
A local commitment
Despite his professional opportunities and travels, Pugmire said he has no intention of leaving eastern Idaho.
Returning home after completing his education was always part of his plan. He wanted to provide high-quality health care to the communities where he grew up, including smaller rural towns where specialized services can be difficult to find.
Pugmire’s passion for his work is evident, especially when he talks about the satisfaction of helping patients overcome challenges they once thought were insurmountable.
“I love a good challenge and get great satisfaction when people who don’t think they’ll ever get better, get better,” he said.
With a team of 12, High Desert continues to grow, and Pugmire hopes to add more physical therapists to meet increasing demand. Interested applicants can visit the clinic or apply online.
For more information about High Desert Osteopractic Physical Therapy and its treatments, visit High Desert Physical Therapy or follow the clinic on Facebook